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Founded in 1856 in Grenchen, Switzerland, Eterna have a long-standing history of producing mechanical watches, renowned for their precision and craftsmanship. The brand are famous for introducing the Eterna-Matic in 1948, which was different from other automatic movements of that time. This innovative self-winding calibre featured a ball-bearing mounted rotor system, which greatly improved the efficiency and durability of automatic watches. Prior to the invention of the Eterna-Matic, the brand garnered attention for their KonTiki timepiece, which survived 101 days of Pacific winds and currents, and travelled all the way to Polynesia from the coasts of Peru. It wasn’t until the late 1950s that the KonTiki acquired its badge of serial production. Eterna are also known for pioneering the five-ball-bearing rotor system, conceived in 1948 and has become a standard in modern automatic watch movements. This design enhances the rotor's stability and reduces friction, resulting in better accuracy and longer-lasting performance.
Armed with a rich horological legacy, Eterna continues to produce timepieces that combine classic craftsmanship with contemporary design elements, which appeal to both watch enthusiasts and fashion-conscious consumers. In 2004, Eterna designed and built the 6036 movement for the Porsche Design P’6910 Indicator. Composed of 800 components, it displayed elapsed time spans digitally and featured four barrels, which made it one of the most complex series-manufactured movements of its time.
Breaking Down Eterna: The Stories Behind Their Iconic Collections
While their history spans over a century, their collections—Eternity, KonTiki, and Heritage—exemplify a focused commitment to blending tradition with innovation. Each collection narrates a distinct story, making Eterna a brand that resonates with a wide spectrum of watch enthusiasts.
The Eternity collection represents Eterna’s dedication to timeless elegance. Introduced in the 2010s, this line draws on their mastery of understated sophistication, offering versatile designs that transition seamlessly between formal and casual settings. Inspired by their pioneering invention of the ball-bearing mounted rotor in the mid-twentieth century, the collection reflects an ethos of refined simplicity. The clean dials, paired with meticulously crafted cases, highlight their ability to balance traditional aesthetics with modern technical advancements. It is a collection for those who value subtlety in style without compromising on functionality.
The KonTiki collection, introduced in the early 1950s, embodies the spirit of exploration and adventure. Its creation was inspired by Thor Heyerdahl’s 1947 Kon-Tiki expedition, a daring voyage across the Pacific Ocean on a wooden raft. In homage to this remarkable feat, Eterna designed a robust diving watch that could endure the demands of aquatic environments. Over time, the collection has evolved, integrating contemporary materials and innovations while preserving its rugged appeal. With bold designs and high-performance features, these timepieces are as practical for underwater adventures as they are a nod to a legendary chapter in human history.
The Heritage collection serves as a tribute to Eterna’s profound contributions to watchmaking. This range captures the charm of vintage designs, blending them with modern technical sophistication. Each piece echoes their storied past, from their early pioneering innovations to their consistent pursuit of precision. The Heritage collection appeals to those who admire the artistry of classic timepieces while seeking the reliability of contemporary craftsmanship.